Child Abuse Response Simulation for Advanced Practice Nursing Students.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Nursing
• Child Abuse Prevention

Background:

• Advanced practice nursing students require specialized training to manage complex pediatric cases.
• Identifying and responding to suspected child abuse is a critical skill for healthcare professionals.
• Simulation offers a safe and controlled environment for developing clinical competencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To equip advanced practice nursing students with skills in taking patient histories from caregivers.
• To train students in communicating treatment plans for infants with suspected child abuse.
• To enhance student preparedness for initial clinical encounters involving potential child maltreatment.

Main Methods:

• A simulation involving 53 advanced practice nursing students and a standardized patient portraying a mother.
• Students conducted a 1:1 simulated encounter regarding an infant's leg injury attributed to a fall.
• Post-simulation feedback was provided by the standardized patient and faculty debriefing occurred.

Main Results:

• All students exhibited empathy and acknowledged the caregiver's emotions.
• Students effectively communicated concerns regarding suspected child abuse.
• All participants clearly explained diagnostic findings, the necessity of hospital admission, and referrals to investigative agencies.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is crucial for preparing advanced practice nursing students for suspected child abuse cases.
• These simulations enhance students' ability to interview caregivers and communicate critical information.
• This educational approach effectively prepares students for challenging initial clinical encounters.